A Fresh Take on Caesar: Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad
Tired of the same old lettuce-based salads? Get ready to be amazed by this innovative and delicious Kale and Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad! This isn't your typical Caesar; it's a vibrant, flavor-packed experience that will make you crave raw vegetables.
The Magic of Shredded Greens
Forget about boring, bulky salads. We're talking about finely shredded Brussels sprouts and chopped lacinato kale – the A-team of greens. The key here is a good chop or a quick run through a mandoline. We want those veggies to be delicate and delightful, not cumbersome.
Creamy Vegan Caesar Dressing
Now, let's get to the star of the show: the dressing. Don't be fooled by its humble appearance. This creamy, garlicky, avocado-based vegan dressing is a game-changer. It's tangy, briny, and utterly addictive, bringing the whole salad together in perfect harmony.
Cheesy Garlic Croutons: The Irresistible Topper
And of course, no Caesar salad is complete without croutons! These cheesy garlic croutons are the cherry on top. They're crispy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible – a non-negotiable part of this salad.
How to Make the Perfect Kale and Brussels Sprout Caesar
- Make the Dressing: Simply blend avocado, garlic, lemon juice, mayo, salt and a touch of dijon and caper brine until smooth. Taste and adjust for perfection. This dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to five days if stored separately from the other salad components.
- Prepare the Greens: Finely chop the kale and shred the Brussels sprouts using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. The key to a great salad is making sure the greens are easy to eat and not too large or bulky.
- Make the Croutons: You can find great recipes online for cheesy garlic croutons that will provide the perfect crisp and savory addition to this salad.
- Assemble and Enjoy: When you are ready to serve this salad, toss the kale and Brussels sprouts with the delicious dressing, top with croutons and serve. Be sure to toss only the amount of salad you plan to eat immediately as the dressing will cause the greens to soften over time.
Tips for the Best Caesar
- Don't skip the fine chop! It's crucial for the texture.
- Taste and adjust the dressing to your liking.
- Make your own croutons for maximum flavor.
- Add lemon wedges and capers for an extra touch.
This kale and Brussels sprout salad is a great choice for a light yet satisfying lunch, or a fresh side dish. It is also easily customizable. You can add other ingredients such as green apples and dried cranberries, or some protein to make it a full meal.
This is not just a salad; it's a flavorful adventure. So, grab your ingredients and let's get chopping!